Pretoria - The South African government on Thursday condemned the hostage taking of the Burkina Faso President of the Interim Council Michel Kafando, the Prime Minister Isaac Zida and Cabinet members and urged for their immediate release.
Media reports said that the presidential guards burst into a cabinet meeting and arrested the interim President, Prime Minister and other leaders, fuelling fear of a military coup.
The guards were believed to be loyal to ousted leader Blaise Compaore.
Pretoria described the incident as a “serious violation” of Burkina Faso's Constitution and the country’s Transitional Charter.
“South Africa strongly condemns any attempt to seize power through extra-constitutional means or the resolution of political disagreements through the use of force,” the Department of International Relations and Cooperation said.
Calling for their immediate release, South Africa appealed to the people and all political leaders in the country to refrain from any violent activities that may further undermine peace, security and stability in the country.
“We urge all involved, including Burkina Faso's security forces, to adhere to non-violence, and to debate issues in a peaceful and inclusive manner.”
An election is due to take place in less than a month to aim to complete a transition back to democracy after a popular uprising toppled former President Compaore last year.
The department meanwhile advised all South Africans living in or visiting Burkina Faso to register on the ROSA system and stay away from all protest sites.
The department offers a voluntary registration service for South African citizens that are travelling or residing abroad. This service is provided in the event there is a need to contact you to offer urgent advice on a natural disaster or civil unrest or a family emergency.
The information submitted may be used to contact South African citizens and their families to ensure the protection and well-being of South African citizens abroad and provide them with any necessary assistance.– SAnews.gov.za
